My Supercharged ADHD Brain (Dani Vee & James Layton, illus Ruth-Mary Smith, Larrikin)

My Supercharged ADHD Brain is a brightly coloured picture book that candidly explores some of the positive aspects of having ADHD, celebrating differences and encouraging a better understanding of neurodivergence. Authors Dani Vee and James Layton alongside illustrator Ruth-Mary Smith offer a refreshing counter to the negative portrayals of ADHD in children’s literature and the media, drawing from their personal experiences of living with ADHD or caring for children with ADHD. The unnamed narrator knows that their brain is unique; sometimes it feels like fireworks or a popcorn machine, and it never slows down, even when they’re trying to sleep. Readers are led through evocative and playful descriptions of what it feels like to have ADHD. Although many of these representations highlight the benefits of ADHD – such as being an excellent problem solver and bravely trying new things – the narrative also acknowledges some of the challenges, such as losing things and interrupting others when they talk. These frank additions increase the authenticity of the story. Ultimately, while My Supercharged ADHD Brain takes a direct approach, it will be a valuable resource for those wanting to understand what it feels like to have a brain that is ‘always busy’. It challenges stereotypes and will help make young neurodivergent people and their families feel less alone.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Karys McEwen is a librarian, author, and the education advisor for the Melbourne Writers Festival. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews